Restart Scheme
Michael was unemployed and had previously attended other employability programmes and felt that the Restart Scheme would be very much the same.
Joining the Restart Scheme in July 2023 in Evesham, Michael was assigned Chloe Collins as his Job Coach. In his first meeting, Michael expressed that he was keen to work, but found it difficult to find roles that would fit around his children. Michael was also concerned whether he would be better off financially in employment considering childcare costs.
Michael attended a meeting with Seetec’s National Careers Service, who reviewed and refreshed his CV and completed a skills checker based on his likes, dislikes, and interests when it came to employment. This gave him a range of career/employment options to consider, having previously worked within Security.
Chloe asked why Michael left the security industry. He explained he could not afford the cost of renewing his Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. When asked if he would be willing to train and gain the licence if it could be funded, Michael agreed. Chloe found a local security course and arranged funding through the Restart Scheme, which would enable Michael to complete the training and get his SIA licence once again. Michael completed this in December 2023, and his licence was granted in January 2024.
To ease his concern around childcare, and to understand the financial impact of starting employment, Michael attended a session with Lis Vale who used the ‘Better Off Calculator’ which would help review the benefits that he would be eligible for. Lis discussed the support that would be available to him, and the options available to support with childcare. Michael found the session extremely useful, and it was reassuring to have the information that was provided.
Michael completed intensive job search sessions and attended weekly job action groups (JAGS) at the Worcester Careers Hub. Michael received tailored interview preparation support as well as support with applications. The team also supported him with the tools to confidently approach conversations regarding flexible working.
As a result of his hard work, Michael was successful in obtaining a position with a company within his local area that are offering hours to suit his childcare responsibilities.
The Restart Scheme will continue to support Michael as he transitions into his new role. The scheme has provided him with suitable work clothing to get started and travel support for his first 4 weeks on the job.
